So, you’re looking to land a corporate lawyer job in 2025? Awesome! Getting your resume just right is a big deal, and honestly, it can feel like a puzzle. But don’t worry, we’re here to help. This guide breaks down what makes a great corporate lawyer resume, showing you real examples and giving you tips to make yours stand out. We’ll cover everything from what to put in your experience section to how to make your skills pop. Let’s get your application noticed! Corporate Lawyer Resume | Powered by RoboApply.
Key Takeaways
- Make sure your resume clearly shows your legal achievements, not just your duties. Use numbers and clear language to show your impact.
- Tailor your resume for each job you apply for. Highlight skills and experiences that match what the company is looking for.
- Always proofread your resume. Even small errors can make a bad impression.
1. Corporate Lawyer
Corporate lawyers are essential for businesses, handling everything from contracts to compliance. They’re the ones who make sure a company stays on the right side of the law. If you’re aiming for this role, your resume needs to show you’ve got the legal expertise and business sense to handle complex situations. RoboApply can help you tailor your resume to highlight these key areas.
A strong resume will showcase your experience in corporate governance, regulatory frameworks, and contract negotiation.
Here’s what a corporate lawyer might do:
- Interpret laws and regulations for businesses.
- Analyze case outcomes based on legal precedents.
- Gather evidence to support legal actions.
Corporate lawyers need to be well-versed in technology, data privacy, and international law. Highlighting experience in these areas, along with the ability to build relationships and communicate effectively, is crucial.
To really stand out, consider including these skills:
- Drafting and negotiating contracts (NDAs, employment agreements, etc.).
- Assisting with due diligence for M&A transactions.
- Providing legal counsel on corporate governance matters.
Corporate lawyers represent their companies in court, regulatory meetings, and before administrative boards. They also manage mergers and acquisitions. They also primarily write, review, and negotiate legal contracts for clients, providing essential representation in business dealings. Lawyers advise and represent clients in criminal or civil proceedings and other legal matters. They also appraise businesses, oversee mergers and acquisitions, create or review legal documents, and manage related tasks.
2. Senior Counsel
Senior Counsel roles demand a blend of deep legal knowledge and leadership skills. Your resume needs to showcase not only your legal wins but also your ability to guide and mentor other attorneys. Think of it as highlighting your journey from being a skilled player to a team captain. RoboApply can help you tailor your resume to emphasize these leadership qualities, ensuring your application resonates with potential employers.
Here’s an example of how a Senior Counsel might structure their experience section:
- Senior Counsel, Resume Worded (April 2019 – Present)
- Corporate Attorney, Baker & McKenzie (August 2014 – March 2019)
- Junior Lawyer, Coached.com (January 2012 – July 2014)
When describing your experience, quantify your achievements whenever possible. Use numbers and percentages to illustrate the impact you made in your previous roles. This makes your accomplishments more tangible and impressive to potential employers.
Also, consider including sections for:
- Publications: Co-authored ‘The Art of Negotiation in Corporate Law’ in the Journal of Legal Studies.
- Membership: Active Member of the International Association of Corporate Counselors and the American Bar Association.
- Volunteering: Legal Advisor, Resume Worded Foundation (Non-profit organization).
Remember to tailor your resume to each specific job application. Highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position you’re applying for. Use RoboApply to help you identify the key skills and keywords to include in your resume. And don’t forget to create a strong director cover letter to go with your resume!
3. Commercial Lawyer
Commercial lawyers are key players in ensuring business transactions and operations comply with the law. They deal with a wide range of issues, from contract drafting to dispute resolution. A strong resume will highlight your ability to navigate complex legal landscapes and protect your client’s interests. RoboApply can help you tailor your resume to showcase these skills effectively.
Here’s an example of what a Commercial Lawyer resume might look like:
Your Name
Commercial Lawyer
City, Country • (123) 456-789 • [email protected] • linkedin.com/in/your-profile
EXPERIENCE
Coached.com November 2019 – Present
Head of Commercial Law
- Formulated a risk management strategy which decreased legal vulnerability by 30%
- Managed 5 major commercial litigation cases with a 100% success rate
- Saved $1M annually by restructuring contract templates to ensure favorable terms for the company
- Led and mentored a team of 7 junior lawyers, improving the team’s litigation strategy development skills by 50%
- Championed the use of AI tools in legal research leading to a 35% reduction in research time
Allen & Overy April 2014 – October 2019
Senior Commercial Lawyer
- Represented company in 30+ negotiation meetings, secured favorable deals in 90% of cases
- Streamlined legal procedures, reducing document processing time by 20%
- Assisted in the corporate restructuring of three departments, ensuring compliance with relevant laws
Resume Worded January 2010 – March 2014
Legal Associate
- Assisted senior lawyers in 40+ corporate cases
- Created a database to track legal mock trials and arbitration proceedings
SKILLS
Legal Expertise: Civil Litigation, Contract Law, Labor Laws, Intellectual Property Law, Regulatory Compliance, Employment Law
Technical Skills: Legal Research Tools (Westlaw, LexisNexis), Microsoft Office Suite, Legal Document Drafting, Client Relations, Case Management Software (Clio, MyCase)
Languages: English (Native), Spanish (Conversational), French (Basic)
OTHER
Certifications: State Bar Certification, Certified Mediator, Certified Contract Analyst (CCA)
Leadership & Volunteering: Pro Bono Legal Clinic Volunteer, Member of Legal Aid Society
Publications: Published Research: ‘Consumer Protection Laws in the Era of eCommerce’
A commercial lawyer’s resume should clearly demonstrate expertise in relevant laws and regulations, as well as a proven track record of successful negotiations and dispute resolutions. It’s also important to highlight any experience with specific industries or types of commercial transactions.
Here are some top responsibilities for a commercial lawyer:
- Interpret laws, rulings, and regulations for individuals and businesses.
- Analyze the probable outcomes of cases, using knowledge of legal precedents.
- Gather evidence to formulate defense or to initiate legal actions.
To make your resume stand out, consider these tips:
- Quantify your achievements whenever possible. For example, instead of saying "Improved contract negotiation process," say "Improved contract negotiation process, resulting in a 15% reduction in legal costs."
- Tailor your resume to each specific job you’re applying for. Highlight the skills and experience that are most relevant to the position.
- Use action verbs to describe your accomplishments. For example, instead of saying "Responsible for contract review," say "Reviewed and negotiated contracts."
By following these tips and using RoboApply to refine your resume, you can increase your chances of landing your dream job as a commercial lawyer. Make sure to highlight your experience in contract negotiation and dispute resolution.
4. Corporate Solicitor
Being a Corporate Solicitor is all about providing legal advice to businesses, ensuring they comply with the law. It’s a role that demands a sharp legal mind and a good understanding of the business world. You’ll be involved in everything from drafting contracts to advising on mergers and acquisitions. Let’s look at how to make your resume stand out, and how RoboApply can help you tailor your application to each specific job.
A strong resume is key to landing your dream job.
Here’s what a Corporate Solicitor resume might look like:
Your Name
City, Country • (123) 456-789 • [email protected] • linkedin.com/in/your-profile
EXPERIENCE
Resume Worded January 2020 – Present
Head Corporate Solicitor
- Directed a team of 8 legal professionals, overseeing 500+ cases annually with a 95% positive outcome
- Improved contract negotiation strategy, leading to a 20% hike in favorable deals
- Saved the company $2M in potential lawsuits via rigorous due diligence
- Implemented an AI-based case management system, decreasing manual workload by 35%
- Steered the successful acquisition of a $250M company in less than 6 months
Linklaters July 2015 – December 2019
Senior Corporate Solicitor
- Handled a portfolio of 100+ clients, generating an annual revenue of $8M
- Implemented a legal risk mitigation strategy, which decreased breach risk by 25%
- Built and fostered relationships with stakeholders, leading to long-term partnerships
Coached.com
Here are some tips to consider:
- Highlight your experience in corporate law. Hiring managers want to see that you have relevant experience. Make sure to include experience drafting and negotiating contracts, such as NDAs, employment agreements, and vendor contracts.
- Showcase your analytical skills. Corporate law often involves complex legal issues, so it’s important to show that you have the ability to analyze information and come to sound conclusions.
- Quantify your achievements. Whenever possible, use numbers to show the impact you’ve had in your previous roles. For example, you could say that you "saved the company $2M in potential lawsuits" or that you "increased revenue by 15%."
It’s important to tailor your resume to each specific job you’re applying for. This means carefully reviewing the job description and making sure that your resume highlights the skills and experience that are most relevant to the role. Use RoboApply to help you customize your resume for each application, increasing your chances of getting an interview.
Certifications: Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (Member, 2020), Licensed Attorney
Awards: Legal Eagle Award for Excellence in Consulting (2018), EY Rising Star Award (2017)
Leadership & Volunteering: Founder, Lawyers for Environment Campaign, Volunteer, Legal Aid Society
Continued Learning: Attended Corporate Law Conference (2019), Enrolled in Financial Management for Lawyers Course (Present)
Publications: Published articles in the ‘Journal of Corporate and Commercial Law’ and ‘Related Issues’
Volunteer Experience: Legal Consultant – Small Business Startup Clinic (SBSC)
5. Corporate Counsel
Corporate Counsel positions are in-house legal roles within companies. They provide legal advice and services to the corporation, handling a wide range of issues from contracts to compliance. Let’s look at what a resume for this role might look like. RoboApply can help you tailor your resume to highlight the specific skills and experiences that corporate legal departments are looking for.
Here’s an example of how you might structure your resume:
- Contact Information: Your name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn profile.
- Summary/Objective: A brief overview of your legal experience and career goals.
- Experience: Detailed descriptions of your previous roles, focusing on relevant accomplishments.
- Education: Information about your law degree and any other relevant certifications.
- Skills: A list of your key legal skills, such as contract drafting, negotiation, and regulatory compliance.
A strong Corporate Counsel resume showcases your ability to provide strategic legal advice, manage risk, and ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations. It should also highlight your communication and negotiation skills, as well as your ability to work effectively with business teams.
Here’s a sample resume snippet:
Your Name
Corporate Counsel
City, Country | (123) 456-789 | [email protected] | linkedin.com/in/your-profile
Experience
Coached.com, October 2020 – Present
- Advised on legal matters related to business operations, including contracts, compliance, and mergers and acquisitions.
- Negotiated and drafted commercial agreements, ensuring favorable terms for the company.
- Managed litigation and dispute resolution, minimizing legal risks and costs.
To make your resume stand out, consider including these elements:
- Quantifiable Achievements: Use numbers to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., "Negotiated contracts resulting in $X savings").
- Relevant Keywords: Incorporate keywords from the job description to show that you’re a good fit.
- Specific Examples: Provide detailed examples of how you’ve handled complex legal issues.
Also, consider including sections for publications, memberships, and volunteering to showcase your broader involvement in the legal community. For example, you could mention co-authoring ‘The Art of Negotiation in corporate law‘ or being an active member of the International Association of Corporate Counselors.
6. General Counsel
Being a General Counsel is a big deal. You’re basically the top lawyer for a company, handling everything from contracts to lawsuits. It’s a role that demands serious experience and a deep understanding of corporate law. RoboApply can help you tailor your resume to highlight the specific skills and experiences that companies look for in a General Counsel.
Let’s look at what a General Counsel resume might look like:
Senior Counsel
Your Name
City, Country
(123) 456-789
[email protected]
linkedin.com/in/your-profile
EXPERIENCE
Resume Worded
April 2019 – Present
Senior Counsel
Led a team of 9 junior attorneys, boosting team efficiency by 40% through regular feedback sessions
Negotiated complex partnership contracts that increased revenue by $6M annually
Defended company successfully in 20+ high-profile litigation cases
Reviewed and optimized the company’s compliance processes, reducing breach risk by 25%
Implemented use of legal document automation software to expedite work process and reduced time spent on repeated tasks by 30%
Coached.com
October 2020 – Present
Senior Corporate Counsel
Reshaped corporate policy in line with new regulations, ensuring zero legal violations
Negotiated 50+ contracts, resulting in an annual saving of $2M
Coordinated a cross-functional team of 10 to execute a $500M IPO in record six months
Augmented team performance by 30% through targeted coaching and feedback
Introduced an AI-powered contract management system, reducing contractual risks by 20%
EY
April 2016 – September 2020
Corporate Counsel
Successfully defended the company in high-stakes litigation, saving $10M in potential charges
Advised 10+ company departments on legal compliance, maintaining 100% clean records
Optimized legal database, improving data retrieval speed by 25%
Baker & McKenzie
August 2014 – March 2019
Corporate Attorney
Managed corporate due diligence for 50+ M&A transactions
Achieved 95% success rate in avoidance of contractual disputes via comprehensive contract reviews
Created a legal risk management plan, reducing potential legal threats by 40%
Coached.com
January 2012 – July 2014
Junior Lawyer
Assisted in the preparation of over 70 corporate legal documents
Supported Services of Resume Worded (Volunteer Lawyer), Manage a team of paralegals and junior lawyers at Coached.com
Publications: Co-authored ‘The Art of Negotiation in Corporate Law’ in the Journal of Legal Studies
Membership: Active Member of the International Association of Corporate Counselors and the American Bar Association
Volunteering: Legal Advisor, Resume Worded Foundation (Non-profit organization)
7. Criminal Lawyer
Being a criminal lawyer is definitely different from the corporate world. Instead of mergers and acquisitions, you’re dealing with criminal law. Your resume needs to show you can handle the pressure. RoboApply can help you tailor your resume to highlight the specific skills and experiences that criminal law firms are looking for.
It’s all about demonstrating your ability to defend clients and navigate the complexities of the legal system. Your resume should clearly show your experience with criminal cases.
Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Showcase your courtroom experience. Have you handled trials? Plea bargains? Make it clear.
- Highlight your knowledge of criminal law and procedure. Knowing the rules is key.
- Emphasize your investigative skills. Can you gather evidence and build a strong defense?
A criminal lawyer’s resume needs to be direct and to the point. Focus on your experience with criminal cases, your understanding of the law, and your ability to advocate for your clients. Don’t bury the important stuff – make it easy for potential employers to see your strengths. You can use lawyer resumes as a starting point.
Think about including details like:
- Specific types of cases you’ve handled (e.g., DUI, drug offenses, assault).
- Your success rate in trials or plea negotiations.
- Any specialized training or certifications you have in criminal law.
Remember, a strong criminal lawyer resume shows you’re ready to fight for your clients. You can also check out criminal lawyer resume examples for more inspiration.
8. Associate Attorney
Being an associate attorney is a crucial step in a legal career. It’s where you put your law school knowledge into practice, working under the guidance of more experienced lawyers. Your resume needs to show you’re ready for the challenge. RoboApply can help you tailor your resume to highlight the skills and experiences that law firms are looking for in an associate attorney.
An associate attorney resume should clearly demonstrate your legal skills, experience, and education. It’s important to showcase your ability to research, write, and communicate effectively. Here’s what you need to know:
- Highlight Relevant Experience: Focus on internships, clerkships, and any legal work you’ve done. Quantify your achievements whenever possible.
- Showcase Key Skills: Include skills like legal research, writing, analysis, and communication. Tailor these to the specific job description.
- Education Matters: Clearly list your law school, GPA (if it’s high), and any honors or awards you received.
Remember to tailor your resume to each specific job application. Highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position you’re applying for. This shows employers that you’re genuinely interested in the role and have the qualifications they’re looking for.
Here’s an example of how you might structure your experience section:
Example:
Associate Attorney, Corporate Law
General Motors LLC
09/2011-05/2016
- Advised on labor and employment issues, reducing litigation risks by enforcing proactive legal policies for a workforce of over 10,000 employees.
- Represented the company in high-stakes litigation, achieving a 90% success rate in defense verdicts.
- Drafted and negotiated contracts, ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
To make your resume stand out, consider mentioning relevant associations. Some top US associations for lawyers include the American Association for Justice and the American Bar Association. These show your commitment to the legal profession. Also, remember to check out resources that provide steps, structure, and skills to create an excellent associate attorney resume.
An associate attorney resume is a key document that outlines your work experience, education, credentials, and legal skills. It’s your first impression, so make it count! If you have 5 years of experience, make sure to highlight your detail-oriented approach and proven track record in areas like contract negotiations and compliance.
9. Litigation Lawyer
Litigation lawyers, sometimes called trial lawyers, are the ones you see in movies arguing cases in court. But it’s way more than that. They handle all phases of the legal process, from investigation to settlement or trial. It’s a demanding field, requiring sharp analytical skills and the ability to think on your feet. RoboApply can help you tailor your resume to highlight the specific skills and experiences that litigation firms are looking for.
A strong litigation lawyer resume showcases not only your legal knowledge but also your ability to advocate effectively, manage complex cases, and achieve favorable outcomes for your clients.
Here’s an example of how you might structure your resume as a litigation lawyer:
- Name: [Your Name]
- Contact Information: [Your Phone Number] | [Your Email] | [Your LinkedIn Profile]
- Summary:
- Experience:
- Education:
- Skills:
Remember to tailor this example to your own experiences and skills. Focus on quantifiable achievements whenever possible. For example, instead of saying "Assisted with case preparation," say "Assisted in preparing [Number] cases for trial, resulting in a [Percentage]% success rate."
Consider these points when crafting your litigation lawyer resume:
- Highlight your courtroom experience: If you’ve argued motions, conducted trials, or participated in arbitrations, make sure to emphasize these experiences. Improve your resume by showcasing your advocacy skills.
- Showcase your research and writing abilities: Litigation relies heavily on legal research and persuasive writing. Provide examples of successful briefs, motions, or legal memoranda you’ve drafted.
- Quantify your achievements: Use numbers and percentages to demonstrate the impact of your work. For example, "Successfully defended a client in a breach of contract case, saving them $[Amount] in potential damages."
- Tailor your resume to the specific position: Research the law firm or organization you’re applying to and tailor your resume to match their specific needs and priorities. If they specialize in a particular area of litigation, highlight your experience in that area.
- Proofread carefully: Ensure your resume is free of grammatical errors and typos. A polished and error-free resume demonstrates attention to detail, which is essential for a litigation lawyer.
10. Employment Lawyer
Employment lawyers deal with a wide range of legal issues related to employment. This includes things like discrimination, wrongful termination, wage disputes, and workplace safety. Your resume needs to show you understand these laws and can advocate for your clients, whether they’re employers or employees. RoboApply can help you tailor your resume to highlight the most relevant experience and skills for this specific area of law.
To make a strong impression, focus on quantifiable achievements and specific examples of your work.
- Demonstrate expertise in employment law statutes (e.g., ADA, FMLA, Title VII).
- Showcase experience in negotiation, mediation, and litigation.
- Highlight your ability to conduct thorough investigations and provide sound legal advice.
A great employment lawyer resume will clearly show your ability to navigate complex legal issues and protect your clients’ rights. It’s about demonstrating both your legal knowledge and your ability to apply it effectively in real-world situations. Make sure to tailor your resume to each specific job you’re applying for, highlighting the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the employer’s needs.
For example, instead of saying "Advised clients on employment law matters," try something like "Provided legal counsel to over 50 clients on ADA compliance, resulting in a 15% reduction in potential lawsuits." This gives the employer a much clearer picture of your skills and accomplishments. You can also use RoboApply to identify keywords and phrases that are commonly used in employment lawyer job descriptions, helping you to optimize your resume for applicant tracking systems. Consider using a legal resume example to help you get started.
Dealing with job issues can be tough. If you’re facing problems at work, like unfair treatment or not getting paid right, an employment lawyer can help. They know the rules and can stand up for your rights. Don’t try to figure it out alone. Learn more about how a lawyer can assist you by visiting our website today.
Wrapping Things Up: Your Corporate Lawyer Resume
So, there you have it. Making a good corporate lawyer resume means showing what you’ve done, not just what you were supposed to do. Think about those times you really made a difference. Did you help a company save money? Or maybe you smoothed out a tough deal? Those are the things that stand out. Keep your resume clear and to the point. Make sure it’s easy to read and that the important stuff jumps out. A strong resume can really help you get noticed in the corporate legal world. Good luck!
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a corporate lawyer do?
A corporate lawyer helps businesses with all their legal needs. This includes making sure they follow rules, writing contracts, and handling big deals like when companies buy or join with others. They also help solve problems that come up in business.
What should I put on my resume for a corporate lawyer job?
When writing your resume, show off your skills in understanding business laws, handling agreements, and dealing with company rules. Make sure to mention any big projects or deals you helped with and how you made a difference. Also, highlight skills like clear talking, solving problems, and thinking sharply.
Can RoboApply help me improve my corporate lawyer resume?
Yes, RoboApply can help you make your resume better. It can check your resume for mistakes, tell you what skills you might be missing, and give you a score to see how your resume compares to others in the same field. It’s a quick and free way to improve your resume.